Zen House

Private Residence for Drew Gilbert Design

Zen House is a refined example of minimalist design, where light, water, and space shape a calm and cohesive living environment. A pool anchors the home's layout, complemented by the presence of an olive tree that brings a natural focal point. Thoughtful material choices and clean architectural lines support a sense of clarity and quiet. Every detail contributes to a sense of purposeful stillness, where nothing feels excessive and everything has its place. In this way, Zen House becomes a quiet refuge, attuned to both its inhabitants and its natural surroundings.

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Zen House by Drew Gilbert

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Private Residence by Drew Gilbert

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Drew Gilbert Zen House

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Drew Gilbert Private Residence

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Drew Gilbert Designer Portrait Photo

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Zen House Private Residence Press Releases

For Zen House, we offer press releases in multiple languages, including: English.

Unique Properties

This bespoke villa is uniquely immersed in water, creating a serene and luxurious atmosphere. Upon entering, the pool immediately comes into view, centered around a beautiful olive tree, setting the tone for a seamless indoor outdoor connection. As one moves further into the home, the living space appears to float within the pool, reinforcing the sense of tranquility and exclusivity.

Tags

Villa, Sustainable Design, Smart Home Technology, Minimalism, High Quality Materials, Bespoke, Energy Efficiency, Exceptional Living Experience, Innovation

Production Technology

The project was developed using state of the art design tools, including lighting analysis software to optimize natural illumination and ambiance. Extensive research on sustainable materials and systems informed key design decisions, incorporating features such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems to minimize environmental impact.

Design Challenge

The greatest challenge in this project was balancing the client’s vision with sustainability and innovation. The design had to reflect the client’s taste and lifestyle while integrating high performance, eco conscious materials and systems. Additional challenges included navigating material availability, ensuring regulatory compliance, and optimizing the home’s performance within Dubai’s climate conditions all while maintaining the architectural purity of the design.

Project Duration

The project started in 2024 and was completed in 2025, located in Nadd Al Shiba, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Operation Flow

The villa integrates advanced smart home systems, solar panels, and thick walls for thermal mass, ensuring energy efficiency and sustainability. The spatial flow is natural and intuitive, reinforcing the effortless elegance and beauty of the home.

Research

The research behind this project delved into the nuances of minimalist architectural design, focusing on materiality, form generation, and spatial composition to authentically capture the essence of minimalism. This involved a comprehensive study of volumetric play, emphasizing how spaces interact with light, water, and the surrounding environment. The study also explored climate responsive design strategies, leveraging natural cooling techniques and passive energy solutions to enhance comfort while reducing the building’s ecological footprint.

Inspiration

This signature villa is designed around curated moments of paradise from the way natural light penetrates the interior to the carefully selected materials and the pool that serves as the heart of the home. The design embraces minimalism, offering clean, elegant lines while maximizing enjoyment. Creative freedom defines every aspect, ensuring that the home is both a tranquil retreat and a bold architectural statement.

Project Overview

Zen House Private Residence has been a Silver winner in the Architecture, Building and Structure Design award category in the year 2024 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Silver A' Design Award celebrates top-tier designs that embody excellence and innovation. This award acknowledges creations that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional, reflecting the designer's deep understanding and skill. Silver A' Design Award recipients are recognized for their contribution to raising industry standards and advancing the practice of design. Their work often incorporates original innovations and elicits a strong emotional response, making a notable impact on the improvement of everyday life.

Image Credits

For design images and photos please credit Drew Gilbert.

Silver Recognition

Drew Gilbert was recognized with the coveted Silver A' Design Award in 2025, a testament to excellence of their work Zen House Private Residence.

Drew Gilbert Press Releases

We provide a series of press releases on Drew Gilbert that journalists and press members can freely incorporate into their narratives. Instantly access 4 press releases, available exclusively for journalists.

Zen House by Drew Gilbert Wins Silver A' Design Award for Innovative Minimalist Villa in Dubai

Drew Gilbert's Zen House, a 10,000-square-foot private residence in Nadd Al Shiba, Dubai, has been honored with the Silver A' Design Award 2025 for its seamless blend of minimalist architecture, sustainable technology, and tranquil living, redefining luxury home design in the UAE.

Drew Gilbert Newsroom

Dive into Drew Gilbert Newsroom to explore celebrated designs and projects.